March 22, 2023

To: Board of Education

From: Dr. Alex Marrero, Superintendent
Re: School Safety and Board Superintendent Relationship

Today, the concern I heard upon my arrival in Denver close to two years ago about school violence and
that I expressed back at the November 2022 Board of Education meeting became reality. As we all know,
two staff members at East High School were shot by a student. It is a sad and tragic day for East High
School, Denver Public Schools, and our entire Denver community. Today was my fourth visit to Denver
Health’s Intensive Care Unit due to victims of gun violence. These events should not have happened on
my watch or on this Board’s watch.

For the rest of the 2023 school year, I am committed to having two armed police officers from the Denver
Police Department stationed at East High School during school hours. In addition, I am committing to
having an armed officer at each comprehensive high school and will have ongoing discussions with
Principals at each site to understand their continuing need and desire for this resource.

I acknowledge this action likely violates Executive Limitations 10.10, which mandates that I “not staff
district schools with school resource officers or the consistent presence of security armed with guns or
any other law enforcement personnel.” However, I can no longer stand on the sidelines. I am willing to
accept the consequences of my actions.

Today, I act because I am the leader of this district who is charged with keeping our scholars and staff
safe each and every day.

In light of today’s events I believe that Ends 4 and Ends 10.10 are in conflict. I do not believe I can
execute the Board’s desires as expressed in Ends 4 while EL10.10 and the SRO Resolution remain in
place. I request that we have a conversation tomorrow in an Executive Session with select staff
members being included. It is important we find common ground and ensure our students and staff are
safe and find alignment of our existing values.

Dr. Alex Marrero

Superintendent